Charger Loss Prevention Adaptor

ABSTRACT

A reminder system for a portable-device charger is designed for determining when it is likely that the charger is about to be left behind. Detection which may be in real time can pertain, depending on the embodiment, to disconnection of a portable device from the charger, and/or movement of a portable device out of wireless range of the charger or a charger adaptor. In some versions, the onset of reminding is, upon detecting disconnection, tentatively postponed until a predetermined criterion is met, such as expiry of a predetermined time period. Or the criterion can be detection of an out-of-range condition based on distance between the portable device and an adaptor or charger. In some embodiments detection and reminder issuance are incorporated in a unit, such as a plug-in wall adaptor or the charger itself.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation application of application Ser. No. 13/467,084,filed on May 9, 2012, which is a continuation of the application fromwhich U.S. Pat. No. 8,493,226 issued on Jul. 23, 2013, the entiredisclosure of the patent being incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to issuing reminders and moreparticularly, to issuing reminders with respect to a connection status.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Travelers doing a last-minute scan of a room before checking out oftenleave behind portable-device battery chargers. They are easy to miss,due to their dark color and especially if the wall outlet is behindfurniture. You can easily forget in the morning the charger you pluggedin the night before for charging. This problem is exacerbated by thewide variety of mobile devices, each with its own charger that atraveler potentially has to keep track of.

Hotels typically have an abundant supply of left-behind chargers.

However, they do not contact the guest due to privacy concerns and thetime and effort that would be involved. Also, the hotel often does notknow the contact information if the reservation was made through onlineservices.

Shipping the charger back to its owner still leaves the owner without ameans for charging the device until the charger arrives, which couldleave the device inoperative for several days.

Purchasing a new charger that is compatible with the device also couldentail inconvenience and delay.

Most chargers, even when not charging the portable-device battery,consume electrical power, even though some electrically disconnect fromthe wall current, as described in U.S. Patent Publication No.2010/0001684 to Eastlack (hereinafter “the Eastlack patent”), which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Thus, forgettingchargers often wastes energy, until the charger is discovered andunplugged.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,373,229 to Slusky (hereinafter “the Slusky patent”),entitled “Battery Charging System for Portable Electronic Devices”,which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, checkswhether a battery is electrically connected to a charger. If it is not,Slusky generates an alarm reminding the user to charge the portabledevice.

Notably, the checking is at a particular time of day pre-set by the userfor when charging is intended to commence, and the checking is for acurrent, existing connection regardless of when disconnection, if any,actually occurred. Accordingly, the Slusky device would not be effectivein alerting the user that a charger is about to be left behind.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010/0225493 A1 to Zishaan, entitled“Improvement to Response Units,”(hereinafter “Zishaan”), discloses atravel packing assisting system that, in connection with a user's changein location, issues a user warning signal specific to one or morearticles to be packed. A detector detects when the article is in atravelling mode of use.

In a Zishaan embodiment comprising both a charger and a portable devicechargeable by the charger, the detector detects, among other things,when the charger is separated from the portable device.

The device, such as a mobile phone, and the charger both have wirelesstransceivers, the device detecting the travelling mode. The devicefeatures a user interface for prompting the user with regard to travelplans and for entering scheduling information.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Systems for reminding, as to events or objects, often require the userto pre-arrange specific circumstances under which to be reminded, orparticular times as with many personal digital assistants (PDAs).

Problematically, however, the particular times entered into the systemmay become ineffective if travel plans change, and the user bears theburden of keeping track of this. There also is the tendency to issue toomany “false positives”, i.e., reminders that the user may find obtrusiveand unnecessary.

Reminder systems for mobile or portable electronic devices chargeable bya charger are available, relying on wireless detection by a device wornor carried by the user that the object to be protected is too far away.

These protocols are not sufficiently targeted for reminding a user aboutto leave behind a charger.

In this regard, much more often than not, the left-behind charger isstill plugged in to the wall outlet, and the device it was charging hasbeen removed; thus, firstly, if it is not plugged in, it is not aslikely to be left behind, and whether a reminder is necessary or desiredis in doubt.

Yet, in many existing systems, the reminder issues whether or not theobject, i.e., portable electronic device typically having a battery, iscurrently plugged in for charging.

Secondly, at least since electronic devices in general are not connectedfor charging other devices, reminders are issued without taking intoaccount this connection status either. In the case of a charger,however, travelers rarely leave it behind still attached to the devicebeing charged. Therefore, a reminder is not needed in this case, either.

With regard to false alarms, they can often occur just when the traveleris in a hurry to get somewhere.

Alternatively, travelers may become de-sensitized to the alarms. If areminder issues every time the guest leaves the hotel to go tobreakfast, lunch, dinner, a business meeting, or a social occasion, theguest might as a consequence ignore the true notification he or shereceived, upon checking out, that would otherwise have caused the guestto go back for the portable electronic device.

The same problem of false alarm problem would exist for a charger.

The Zishaan application, discussed above, discloses a travel packingassisting system that includes measures to prevent a charger from beingleft behind, but fails to specifically address several of the issuesthat relate to a charger in particular.

Although the above-mentioned Zishaan embodiment, for example, detectsseparation of a charger from the portable device, Zishaan fails todisclose or suggest taking into account, before commencing a reminder,whether the charger is plugged in to the wall outlet. Nor is there any“grace period” offered in which the user can restore the device to“plugged-in” status and thereby avoid the alarm. It would be desirableto give the user leeway, such as a grace period of predetermined length,in which to plug, unplug and move around devices without beinginterrupted by a signal serving as a reminder, e.g., by means of analarm, incoming-message audible tone, or screen prompt.

There is also the problem, mentioned above, that changes to thetraveler's schedule require, as in Zishaan, constant attention so thatentered parameters are accordingly updated. It may be harder for atraveler to keep up with the changes than it would be to remember thecharger unassisted.

Additionally, relying on a personal digital assistant (PDA), or PDA-likecapability, for scheduling and for tracking the user's movement, as inZishaan, can burden the traveler with yet one more portable device if,for example, a separate mobile phone is used.

It is noted too that the user in Zishaan must acquire the softwareapplication affording the user interface on the PDA or PDA-like portabledevice.

Also, each charger, if dedicated, must separately be provided with thewireless communication and alarm capability.

What is needed is a protocol that is convenient, automatic andselectively unobtrusive. It should, for example, forego reminding whenthe user is about to leave to go somewhere at a time when the charger ischarging a portable device. Yet, the device or method should beeffective in promptly reminding the traveling user who is about to leavea charger behind under conditions in which loss of the charger ispotentially imminent. Optionally, the device or method could besensitive to the need for a reminder, and the level of obtrusiveness, inthe event of a power outage and the events that thereafter transpire.The device or method could also delay issuance of the reminder, in casethe user is merely plugging, unplugging or moving devices without anyintention of leaving at that time. The device and method might furtherseek to conserve energy when the charger is plugged in but not charging,and be adaptive to chargers that themselves incorporate such anenergy-saving function. In addition, the device or method may begeneralized rather than specialized for use with a particular type ofportable-device plug-in charger.

The present invention is directed to addressing one or more of theabove-noted shortcomings to the prior art.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a unit isconnectable for charging a portable device and configured to preventleaving behind a portable-device battery charger when a batterychargeable by the charger is disconnected from the charger. The unitincludes a detector configured for detecting the disconnection. Itfurther includes a notification module configured for, responsive todetection of the battery being disconnected from the charger and toprevent the leaving behind, issuing a reminder.

In accordance with another aspect, a portable-device battery charger isconfigured to prevent itself from being left behind when a battery of aportable device is disconnected from the charger. The charger isconfigured for, responsive to the charger detecting the disconnectionfrom the charger and to prevent the leaving behind, issuing a reminder.The charger independently detects the disconnection.

According to a further aspect, an adaptor is connectable directly to anelectrical outlet and configured to prevent leaving behind aportable-device battery charger when a portable-device battery isdisconnected from the charger. The adaptor includes a notificationmodule configured for, responsive to detection of the battery beingdisconnected from the charger and to prevent the leaving behind, issuinga reminder.

According to yet another aspect, a unit configured for preventing abattery charger from being left behind is configured for supplying powerfrom an electrical outlet to a portable device connected for charging.The unit is also configured for, responsive to breaking of theconnection, delaying commencement of reminding a user.

According to one other aspect, circuitry for preventing a batterycharger from being left behind includes a portable-device disconnectiondetector configured for detecting a disconnection event in which aportable device is disconnected from a battery charger. The detection ofthe event occurs in real time. The circuitry includes a notificationmodule configured for, responsive to the disconnection event, delayingcommencement of reminding a user.

In accordance with a different aspect, a method for making a unitconnectable for charging a portable device and configured to preventleaving behind a portable-device battery charger when a battery of thedevice is disconnected from the charger, includes configuring the unitso as to incorporate a notification module for issuing a reminder tothereby prevent the leaving behind. The issuing is responsive todetection, by the unit, of the battery being disconnected from thecharger.

In a yet further aspect, an adaptor includes an engagement detectorconfigured for detecting, based on, at least one of a) a location of afirst adaptor surface that faces a surface of an electrical outlet withrespect to the outlet surface and b) a location of a surface, of abattery charger, that faces a second adaptor surface with respect to thesecond adaptor surface, whether, correspondingly, the outlet or thecharger is connected to the adaptor. The adaptor further includes anotification module configured for, correspondingly responsive to thedetecting that the outlet or the charger is so connected, issuing areminder.

In accordance with yet another aspect, a unit for preventing a chargerfrom being left behind includes a detector configured for detecting, bywireless communication, movement of a portable device that meets apredetermined criterion based on a distance between the detector and thedevice. It also includes a notification module configured for,responsive to the meeting of the criterion, issuing a reminder tothereby prevent the leaving behind. The unit further includes a switchby which the module is switchable by a user into a state that isinactive but allows said unit to still provide power for charging aportable device, and by which the module is switchable back into anactive state. The unit is designed for the issuing only if the unit isconnected for receiving electrical power from an electrical outlet.

In accordance with a related aspect, a unit for preventing a chargerfrom being left behind includes a detector configured for detecting, bywireless communication, movement of a portable device that meets apredetermined criterion. The criterion is based on a distance betweenthe detector and the device. If further includes a notification moduleconfigured for, responsive to the meeting of said criterion, issuing areminder to thereby prevent the leaving behind. The unit is configuredfor detecting whether it is connected for receiving power from anelectrical outlet. The issuing is responsive to a result of thedetecting whether the unit is connected.

In accordance with one other related aspect, a unit is configured forpreventing a charger from being left behind. The unit comprises adetector configured for detecting, by wireless communication, movementof a portable device that meets a predetermined criterion. The criterionis based on a distance between the detector and the device. The unitfurther comprises a notification module configured for, responsive tothe meeting of the criterion, issuing a reminder to thereby prevent theleaving behind. The unit is further configured for detecting whether itis connected, to a portable device, for supplying a portable-devicebattery with power from an electrical outlet. The issuing is responsiveto a result of the detecting whether the unit is connected.

In accordance with one further related aspect, a unit includes adetector configured for detecting, by wireless communication, movementof a portable device that meets a predetermined criterion. The criterionis based on a distance between the detector and the device. The unitalso includes a notification module configured for, responsive to themeeting of the criterion, issuing a reminder. The issuing is subject todetection of disconnection, from a charger, of a portable-devicebattery.

In accordance with another related aspect, a unit configured forpreventing a charger from being left behind includes a detectorconfigured for detecting, by wireless communication, movement of aportable device that meets a predetermined criterion. The criterion isbased on a predetermined distance between the detector and the device.The unit also includes a notification module configured for, responsiveto the meeting of the criterion, issuing a reminder to thereby preventthe leaving behind; and a battery for supplying power to the unit. Theunit is designed for the issuing only if the unit is connected forreceiving electrical power from an electrical outlet.

According to yet another related aspect, a unit configured forpreventing a charger from being left behind comprises a detectorconfigured for detecting, by wireless communication, movement of aportable device that meets a predetermined criterion. The criterion isbased on a distance between the detector and the device. It furthercomprises a notification module configured for, responsive to themeeting of said criterion, issuing a reminder to thereby prevent theleaving behind. The unit is designed for the issuing only if the unit isconnected for receiving electrical power from an electrical outlet. Theunit is configured for the issuing even when the unit is not receivingthe power from the outlet.

According to one more version of the invention, a wall outlet adaptor isconfigured for, while a device remains plugged in to the adaptor,sensing, from the device, that the device is about to be left behind.

Details of the novel charger adaptor and the charger loss preventionmethod are set forth further below, with the aid of the followingdrawings, which are not drawn to scale.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram providing an overview of an exemplaryfirst embodiment, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 2A-2C is an exemplary schematic diagram of an adaptor and itsconnections;

FIG. 3 is an exemplary schematic diagram of further connections to theadaptor and of the first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an exemplary schematic diagram of the connection-disconnectiondetector of the first embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an exemplary schematic diagram of the notification module ofthe first embodiment;

FIGS. 6-7 and 8A-8C are, collectively, flow charts illustrating, byexample, operation of the first embodiment;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a second embodiment, inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary schematic diagram of theconnection-disconnection detector of the second embodiment;

FIG. 11 is an exemplary schematic diagram of the notification module ofthe second embodiment; and

FIGS. 12, 13A-13C and 14A-14D are flow charts illustrating, collectivelyand by example, operation of the second embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows an example of a first embodiment 100 that involves wirelessdetection. A traveler 105 or user of a charger loss prevention system,away from home 110 is exiting a doorway and is about to leave behind aportable-device-battery charger 115. The charger 115 may have beencharging the mobile or portable phone 120, shown in expanded view, ormay have been charging any other portable appliance, such as a laptop,personal digital assistant (PDA), printer, email communicator, pager,camera, camcorder, electric toothbrush, etc. While exiting, the user hasjust brought the Bluetooth™ (hereinafter “BT”) transceiver 125 in thephone 120 out of transmission range of the BT transceiver 130 residingin an adaptor 132 shown as mechanically and electrically connected tothe charger 115. One end of the adaptor 132 is for receiving the plug ofthe charger 115. The other end is for plugging into the wall.

The adaptor 132 senses movement of a portable device or portableelectronic device, here the phone 120 or other handheld device, awayfrom the adaptor. In effect, it senses the potential for a user toinadvertently leave a charger behind. Specifically, it senses thetransition to the out-of-range condition 134 or breaking of a wirelessconnection 136 symbolized in FIG. 1 by an “X.” A detector within theadaptor 132 is configured for monitoring to detect, by wirelesscommunication, movement of a portable device out of a predeterminedrange. More specifically, the out-of-range condition begins when thedistance between the two transceivers 125, 130 exceeds a predeterminedthreshold representative of the transmission range.

Responsive to the onset of the out-of-range condition, the adaptor 132sends a text message reminder 138 to the phone 120 in a wirelesstransmission over a network 137. The text message 138 pertains to thecharger 115 and adaptor 132 both about to be left behind, as in “takethe charger”, or the adaptor about to be left behind, as appropriate.The text message reminder 138 is typically preceded by an audiblesignal, or a vibration if the phone is in vibration mode, whichindicates that a text message has arrived. Alternatively, the remindercan be in any other form, such as tactile.

Responsive to the out-of-range condition, the system can also detectthat the adaptor 132 alone is about to be left behind.

A particular configuration for a charger loss prevention adaptor 204 isshown in FIGS. 2A-2C although many variations are possible.

The three-prong adaptor 204 is connectable directly to an electricaloutlet, such as a wall outlet of a hotel room, serving as a source ofelectrical power. The adaptor 204 has, as shown in the inside view ofFIG. 2A, a resilient adaptor-connection toggle button 208. Theadaptor-connection toggle button 208 protrudes, as best seen from FIGS.2B, 2C, from a first adaptor surface 209. The button 208 is urged in byan electrical outlet surface 211, against spring-loaded pressure, whenthe adaptor 204 is plugged in to the outlet. Specifically, the walloutlet face 212 forces the button 208 in. Unplugging the adaptor 204automatically releases the button 208 to assume its original position.The adaptor 204, in some implementations, has a backup battery to allowit to operate after being unplugged. The adaptor 204 can sense from thestate of the button 208 whether it is plugged in. As an alternative, twohigh-resistance resistors within the adaptor 204 can, in series, beplaced in parallel with the load. From the voltage detected between theresistors, it can be determined whether the adaptor 204 is plugged in.Making the resistance extremely high minimizes the power consumption bythe resistors.

A resilient charger-connection toggle button 216 protrudes from a secondadaptor surface 217, and is configured and operates analogously withrespect to urging pressure from a charger plug 218, i.e., from a surface220 of a battery charger 222.

The adaptor 204 can likewise ascertain whether it is connected to thecharger 222 from the detected “in” or “out” state of thecharger-connection toggle button 216. The connection status of thecharger 222, when the adaptor 204 is plugged into the wall outlet, mayalternatively be obtained based on measuring current flow. Current maybe drawn for charging a portable device and/or may be drawn by abattery-present indicator in the charger, such as a light-emitting diode(LED) 226 that lights up when the battery is placed in or connected tothe charger. If, on the other hand, no device is connected for charging,i.e., in a “no-load” condition, there generally will still be a smallcurrent to the transformer. In either case, the current can be measuredby means of a low-resistance, series resistor, if the charger 222, likemost, is not designed to shut down power when there is no load or afully-charged load. An example of a charger with the shutdown capabilityis provided in the Eastlack patent. As discussed herein below, theadaptor 204 can also be equipped to perform a power-saving shutdown. Analternative to the low-resistance, series resistor is a hall probecurrent sensor.

A home/travel mode switch 224 allows the user 105 to put the adaptor 204in “home mode” which inactivates the reminding function, exemplified inFIG. 1 in the form of a text message reminder. At home, the user 105 maywant to leave the charger 222 in the wall. Accordingly, the adaptor 204need not physically be disconnected from the charger 222 to use thecharger at home. In fact, the power-saving shutdown feature canadvantageously be utilized. Alternatively, the adaptor 204 may beimplemented without any electrical power regulating function.

The power-saving shutdown feature automatically shuts down thealternating current (AC), a capability that, as mentioned herein above,some chargers have. Without the AC, the charger loss preventioncircuitry, or “system”, cannot detect whether the user 105 has unpluggedthe portable device plugged in for charging. Therefore, as a precaution,the light-emitting diode (LED) 226 on the adaptor 204 flashescontinually to warn the user 105. Since the power-saving shutdown mayoccur overnight, a less obtrusive flashing LED is preferred over anaudible signal. Even though unplugging the portable device, if itoccurs, is not detected, on account of the absence of AC, the adaptor204 can, by means of backup circuitry, detect when the user is startingto leave, e.g., in the morning, and send the text message reminder 138.Thus, issuing of the reminder 138 can occur even when the adaptor 204 isnot receiving power from an electrical outlet.

AC can be restored when the user 105 presses a post-power-savingreactivation switch 228. This also halts the flashing.

FIG. 3 depicts, by way of illustrative and non-limitative example, anoverview of charger loss prevention circuitry 300 in accordance with thefirst embodiment of the present invention. The circuitry 300 is designedprimarily, as discussed herein above, for preventing a user who iscurrently away from home from leaving a charger behind in a wall outlet.The circuitry 300 can be implemented as, for example, analog electroniccomponents, a hybrid circuit, or a solid state device comprising anintegrated circuit which includes any form of RAM, ROM, ASIC, PLD, orcombination thereof, and can be implemented in software, firmware orhardware or any combination thereof.

The circuitry 300 can be incorporated into a plug-in unit, separate froma portable device to be charged, and implemented for example as anadaptor 304 for making a plug-in connection to an outlet. The adaptor304 is depicted in FIG. 3 as detachably pluggable into a wall outlet308, as indicated by the arrows 312, and can detachably receive acharger 316 to which it is removably connectable, as shown by the arrows320.

The charger 316 has an end 324 which detachably is connectable to aseparate, portable device 328, such as a personal digital assistant(PDA). By the detachable connection, an electrical connection 332 isestablished to a portable-device-battery 336 chargeable by the charger316 and configured for powering the portable device 328. Disconnectionof the battery 336 from the portable-device battery charger 316 occursby detachment, from the charger, of the portable device 328 to which thebattery is attached. The portable device 328 can be any portable, mobileor handheld device, or it can be a battery. Disconnection of theportable device 328 electrically disconnects the battery 336 from thecharger 316.

In some versions of the invention, the adaptor, including its circuitry300, can be integrated 318 with the charger 316 to form a single unit.In the case of an integrated charger, disconnection can be detecteddirectly by the charger in any known and suitable manner, as describedfor example in U.S. Pat. No. 6,014,011 to DeFelice et al. As in the caseof a charger and separate adaptor, the integrated charger, responsive todetecting disconnection of the portable device 328, issues the reminder138 to thereby prevent itself from being left behind.

The charger loss prevention circuitry 300 includes, attached to a dataand control bus 340, a connection-disconnection detector 344, anotification module 348, an engagement detector 352, backup circuitry356 including a backup battery (not shown), a controller 360, apost-power-saving reactivation switch 364, and a home/travel mode switch368.

One variation of the connection-disconnection detector 344, as shown inFIG. 4, includes, attached to the data and control bus 340, a comparatormodule 405, a portable-device connection-existence detector 410, amemory 415, a power-connection existence detector 420, andportable-device-battery stored-charge detector 425.

The memory 415 can store a present current-magnitude reading 430, one ormore previous readings 435 and reference magnitudes 440. It further cancomprise working storage and storage for data and control information(not shown).

The notification module 348 of the current example, as shown in FIG. 5,includes, attached to the data and control bus 340, a Bluetooth™ module510 serving as a master, a lost BT connection detector 520, a networktransceiver 530, a text message selector 540 and an LED flasher 550.

In operation, according to one scenario, and as seen in FIG. 6, the userconnects together, in any order, the components, i.e., the adaptor 304,the charger 316, and the portable device 328; with the adaptor, at somepoint, being plugged in to the wall outlet 308.

Once the adaptor 304 is plugged in (step S610), the user 105 can BT pairit with the phone 120. An initial BT Passkey is provided with theadaptor 304. The BT module 510 of the plugged in adaptor 304 prompts forthe Passkey, as seen on a display screen of the phone 120 in BTtransmission range of the adaptor. BT power class 2 has a range of about10 meters. The user 105 enters the Passkey provided and the BT module510 then pairs with the BT transceiver 125 of the phone 120. The BTmodule 510 then causes the paired phone 120 to send it a text message.The adaptor 304 gets the phone number from the received message, andstores the phone number for later use as a destination. In particular,the adaptor 304 can, at that later time by means of the networktransceiver 530, text the user 105 a reminder selected by the textmessage selector 540. The network transceiver 530 incorporates themessage transmit functionality of a two-way pager. Accordingly, in stepS620 and in any order and if not already done, the adaptor 304 is BTpaired with the portable phone 120; the charger 316 is plugged into theadaptor; and the other charger end 324 is plugged into the portabledevice 328.

Once the BT pair is formed and it is detected, as by the engagementdetector 352, by means of the buttons 208, 216, that the charger 316 andthe adaptor 304 are plugged in (step S620), thelost-Bluetooth™-connection detector 520 which is in the adaptor 304monitors for the phone 120 being out of BT range, i.e., when thewireless, BT connection 136 to the phone no longer exists (S710).Although the portable phone 120 would typically independently becomeaware of the out-of-range condition, the system 300 need not rely onthis and does not include the phone. In the event of an out-of-rangecondition, the BT paired connection is broken, and the user 105 will bere-prompted, if and when the phone 120 is brought in-range. At thatpoint, the user 105 can easily re-pair the phone 120 with the adaptor304.

Simultaneous with the monitoring for movement out-of-range (step S710),the circuitry 300 monitors, as seen in FIG. 8A, for the occurrence of apower-saving shutdown by the charger. Or the circuitry 300 potentiallydecides to execute the shutdown itself based on a “no-load” conditionwhen a charger alone is connected. The “no load” condition is detectableby comparison of the present current-magnitude reading 430 with therespective reference magnitude 440. The self-initiated shutdown,shutting off power to the charger 316, can also occur in reaction to afull-charge condition detected by the portable-device-batterystored-charge detector (step S810). The self-initiated shutdown ineither case and in an exemplary implementation, uses a relay whosenormally-closed armature opens, by electromagnetic attraction andagainst pulling force of a spring, thereby interrupting a path throughwhich the AC flows to the load. The opening pulls the armature intomagnetic engagement with a fixed contact, keeping the armature open.Actuation of the post-power-saving reactivation switch 364 mechanicallyforces the armature out of the magnetic engagement, the pulling force ofthe spring thereby closing the AC electrical path. Although the shutdownstate, whether self-initiated or not, does prevent detection of whetherthe portable device 328 is connected for charging, it does not hamperthe ability to tell at a later time, i.e., when the user 105 leaves,whether the charger itself is connected. In particular, this firstembodiment has the backup circuitry 356, and the engagement detector 352equipped to detect an “in” state of the resilient charger-connectiontoggle button 216. Although the engagement detector 352 is describedhereinabove as operable by the mechanical urging in or release of abutton 208, 216, the intended scope of the invention is not so limited.The engagement detector 352 may, in a broader context, instead bedesigned to respond to connection of the adaptor 204 and of the chargerplug 218, or the charger alone in the integrated version, whether or notthe connection, for example, relies on prongs or is electromagnetic asin the case of induction. The connection may be detected based,respectively, on a location of an electrical outlet surface 232 withrespect to a first adaptor surface 236 and on a location of the batterycharger surface 220 with respect to a second adaptor surface 240. Also,although the adaptor 204 is illustrated in FIG. 2 as a stand-alonedevice, it may be made appurtenant to a wall outlet. This can involve ahinge that rotates the adaptor either above the outlet and thereby outof engagement, or down into engagement. Instead of a hinge, a track canbe provided that allows the adaptor to be slid into and out ofengagement.

Returning to FIG. 7, once the lost-Bluetooth™-connection detector 520detects that a hybrid connection no longer exists (step S710), onaccount of the wireless connection 136 being broken when the phone BTtransceiver 125 is carried out of range, the processing branches, basedon whether the power is shut down (step S720). If the power is shutdown, this may have occurred because of a self-initiated orexternally-imposed power-saving shutdown as described immediately above.Or, the shutdown may be as a result of a power outage. In any event, ifthe power is shut down, query is made as to whether the adaptor 304 isstill plugged in, i.e., whether the adaptor in a state of beingconnected for powering from the electrical outlet 308 (step S730). Theengagement detector 352 can determine whether the adaptor 304 is pluggedin, by the “in” or “out” state of the resilient adaptor-connectiontoggle button 208. If the adaptor 204 is not plugged in, there is noneed to send a reminder, and processing returns to step S610. If, on theother hand, the adaptor 204 is plugged in, although it is not known, onaccount of the absence of AC power, whether the portable device 328 isalso plugged in, it is assumed, based on the detected “out-of-range”status, that the user 105 is leaving. Therefore, as a precaution, thetext message reminder 138 is sent out. If the charger 316 is stillplugged in (step S740), the text message selector 540 selects, and BTmaster module 510 texts, by way of the network transceiver 530, “checkfor charger and adaptor” (step S750). If, on the other hand, the charger316 is not still plugged in, the text message selector 540 selects, andthe BT master module 510 texts, by way of the network transceiver 530,“check for charger adaptor” (step S760). Optionally, however, the lattermessage can be foregone, i.e., the issuing of the reminder 138 can besubject to the charger 316 being in a state of being connected forpowering from the outlet 308. At this point, whatever the reminder 138,if any, that is issued, processing then returns to step S620. Lookingnow again at step S720, if power is not shut down, then whether theportable device 328 is connected is known or can be determined.Therefore, based on the “in” or “out” state of the adaptor-connectionand charger-connection buttons 208, 216, the determination on whetherthe user 105 needs to be notified can more reliably be made.Accordingly, if power is not shut down, the portable-deviceconnection-existence detector 410 determines whether the portable device328 is connected to the charger (step S770). Since the portable device328 was connected to the charger 316 in step S620, step S770 detectsdisconnection of the portable device from the charger. In particular,the comparator module 405 compares the present current-magnitude reading430 with the reference magnitude 440 that indicates a minimum currentlevel for charging a portable device. If the portable device 328 isconnected, there is no need to notify the user 105, and processingreturns to step S620. If, on the other hand, it is not connected,processing follows the afore-described logic starting with step S730,albeit with more certainty of the need for notification if, by means ofthe engagement detector 352, it is detected that the charger 316 or theadaptor 204 is plugged in.

Meanwhile, starting with the monitoring for a lost wireless connection,and returning to FIG. 8A, if a power saving shutdown occurs (step S810),the LED flasher 550 starts, as seen from FIG. 8B, flashing the LED 226(step S820). In effect, at this moment, an audible component of thereminder 138 is suppressed. Also, monitoring begins for actuation, i.e.,pressing, of the post-power-saving reactivation switch 364 (step S830).

If the shutdown is due to a power outage, the LED 226 is not flashed.After all, there is no indication here that the user 105 is leaving, theoutage may be temporary, and power may be restored by the time it isdetected that the user is leaving. If power is restored by that time, adefinitive determination can, at that time, be made in step S770 as towhether the portable device 328 is disconnected. Thus, a reliabledecision can be made on whether to, at that time, issue a reminder. Ineffect, rather than issuing a potentially pre-mature reminder now, thecircuitry 300 defers the decision to that time, on whether to issue areminder.

Another possibility is that the shutdown is an externally-imposedpower-saving shutdown, i.e., one imposed by the charger 316 for example.The externally-imposed power-saving shutdown can occur due to afully-charged battery or due to a “no-load” power-saving shutdown, aswhen an unconnected charger having that capability is left in theplugged-in adaptor 204.

If, accordingly, the shutdown is due to an externally-imposedpower-saving shutdown, there exists the real possibility of the userleaving at a time when it still cannot be detected whether the portabledevice 328 is connected. Therefore, as a precaution, a reminder isissued.

And as a further precaution, the reminder is commenced now, albeit in anunobtrusive form, such as flashing the LED 226.

It is therefore desirable to now distinguish occurrence of a poweroutage from occurrence of an externally-imposed power-saving shutdown.

The portable-device connection-existence detector 410 makes thedistinction, based on the size of the drop off, the amount of currentflow just prior to drop off, and the current flow change over timeleading up to the drop off. See the Eastlack patent, FIG. 7. Thecomparator module 405 can, for example, compare the most-recent presentcurrent-magnitude reading 430 with the reference magnitude 440 thatindicates a minimum current level for charging a portable device. Also,the portable-device-battery stored-charge detector 425 may make one ormore comparisons to determine an extent to which the portable-devicebattery 336 is charged, i.e., a charging state of the battery. Thecomparisons are between the most-recent present current-magnitudereading 430 and, respectively, one or more of the previous readings 435made periodically on an ongoing basis. A sufficiently-large abrupttransition down of current magnitude, particularly if it occurs from ahigh current magnitude, indicates a power outage. A power savingshutdown due to a fully charged battery, on the other hand, is oftenpreceded by a slow or gradual drop off in current flow, the drop offbeing from a relatively lower current flow magnitude. In the case of anexternally-initiated “no-load” power-saving shutdown, the last detectedcurrent magnitude would likewise typically be at a lower level. A poweroutage would therefore be recognizable.

Alternatively, the adaptor 204 may be implemented with theaforementioned pair of high-resistance series resistors placed inparallel with the load, lack of voltage between the pair indicating thatthe power is out.

All of the reference magnitudes 440 may be empirically derived so thatthe above-discussed distinctions can reliably be made based on thecurrent-magnitude readings 430, 435.

Pressing the switch 364 causes, as described herein above, the LEDflasher 550 to halt the flashing (step S840), and restorespower-providing functionality for the adaptor.

Alternatively, the adaptor 204 may be designed such that merelyunplugging it terminates the reminder. The reminder may be a continualor periodic reminder such as one that flashes, or a continuous reminderas from a horn or other device for communicating the reminder to theuser 105. The unplugging and/or subsequent plugging can also serve torestore power-providing functionality of the adaptor 204 if thefunctionality has been disabled. However, at least the restoringfunction may be made dependent on a required actuation of the switch364. This provides a more reliable indication, for safety sake, of theuser's intention that the adaptor's power delivery capability berestored and the user's implicit acknowledgment that that is what isoccurring.

If the power-connection existence detector 420 detects that the adaptor204 is plugged in (step S850), processing returns to step S620.Otherwise, if it is detected that the adaptor 204 is not plugged in orotherwise connected for supplying a portable-device battery with powerfrom the outlet 308, processing returns to step S610.

Deferring a reminder in the event of a power outage is an optionalfeature, and the circuitry 330 can be made to issue the reminder, suchas the flashing LED of step S820, immediately even in the event of apower outage.

By means of the home/travel switch 368, discussed briefly herein abovein connection with FIG. 2, the notification module 348 is switchable bythe user 105 into a state that is inactive but allows the adaptor 304 tostill convey power from the source 308 to the charger 316. The switch368 likewise is used to switch the module 348 back into an active state.

FIG. 9 shows an overview of a second embodiment representing anexemplary version of the invention without Bluetooth™ wireless detectionof an out-of-range condition. It also lacks wireless notification,although such could be included. It further lacks the engagementdetector of the first embodiment, although an engagement detector couldbe part of this embodiment too.

Charger loss prevention circuitry 900 can be implemented as, forexample, analog electronic components, a hybrid circuit, or a solidstate device comprising an integrated circuit which includes any form ofRAM, ROM, ASIC, PLD, or combination thereof, and can be implemented insoftware, firmware or hardware or any combination thereof. The circuitry900 can be incorporated into the adaptor 304, and includes, connected toa data and control bus 910, a controller 920, a connection-disconnectiondetector 930, a notification module 940, backup circuitry 950 includinga backup battery (not shown), a home/travel mode switch 960, a memory970, and a post-power-saving reactivation switch 980.

The memory 970 is designed to include a present current-magnitudereading 982, a present voltage-magnitude reading 984, one or moreprevious readings 986, reference magnitudes 988, and a timing threshold990, including working storage and storage for data and controlinformation (not shown).

As seen in FIG. 10, the connection-disconnection detector 930 includes acomparator module 1005, a portable-device disconnection detector 1010, aportable-device connection detector 1015, a portable-deviceconnection-existence detector 1020, a power-connection existencedetector 1025, a portable-device-battery stored-charge detector 1030,and a radio frequency identification (RFID) interrogator 1035 comprisinga wireless transceiver.

FIG. 11 shows the notification module 940. It includes a timer 1120, analarm selector 1140 and an LED flasher 1160.

Operationally, as seen in FIG. 12, the user 105 plugs in to the walloutlet 308 the adaptor 304 and the charger 316 (step S1205), if notalready plugged in. At this point, or, in the case of an engagementdetector, once it is detected that the adaptor 304 and the charger 316are plugged in, the portable-device connection-existence detector 1020,monitors, by means of comparison made by the comparator module 1005using the present current-magnitude reading 982 and the correspondingreference magnitude 988, whether the portable device 328 is connected(step S1210). When the portable-device connection-existence detector1020 detects that the portable device 328 is connected, the status ofthe charger 316 reflects this, and the detector activates thenotification module 940 if it is not already activated (step S1220).

Then, by means of, collectively, the portable-device disconnectiondetector 1010, the portable-device-battery stored-charge detector 1030and the comparator module 1005, monitoring commences for the occurrenceof any one of: a) disconnection of the portable device, b) a poweroutage, and c) an externally-imposed power-saving shutdown (step S1230).Comparisons made to identify when any of the events a), b) and c) haveoccurred are analogous to those described herein above with respect toFIG. 8. Detection of an externally-imposed power-saving shutdown, forexample, can be based on a sensed charging state of the battery 336, asdiscussed further above. As also mentioned above, the present, i.e.,second, embodiment is assumed to lack an engagement detector.Consequently, the occurrence of a power outage is indistinguishable fromthe user unplugging the adaptor 304. Since, as noted below, it may bedesirable to issue a reminder, in the form of LED flashing, in the caseof a power outage, the reminder is likewise issued due to the unpluggingwhen the adaptor is in travel mode. However, the resulting LED flashingcan be terminated by the user 105 pressing the post-power-savingreactivation switch 980. Alternatively, as mentioned herein above, thesecond embodiment can be implemented with an engagement detector. Inthat case, a power outage would be distinguishable from the unpluggingof the adaptor 304, and no flashing would occur in the latter event.Thus, the user 105 would be relieved of the need to press the switch 980after having unplugged the adaptor 304. As a further alternative, theadaptor 304 can be designed without the power-outage-based reminderdiscussed immediately below, and thus there would be no need to pressthe switch 980 after having unplugged the adaptor 304.

In step S1230, if there is no detection of portable devicedisconnection, power outage or power-saving shutdown, and if there hasbeen no self-initialization of power-saving (step S1250, “NO” branch),monitoring continues with a branch back to step S1230.

If, on the other hand, a power outage or power-saving shutdown hasoccurred (steps S1240, “NO” branch; or S1250, “YES” branch), thecircuitry 900 will not, by the above techniques, any longer be able todetect whether the portable device 328 is disconnected. Consequently, asa precaution, a non-obtrusive reminder is issued (step S1260).Specifically, in issuing the reminder, the alarm selector 1140suppresses the audible component, since, for example, it may now be inthe middle of the night. The reminder may take the form of a visiblecomponent, such as a flashing LED 226 controlled by the LED flasher1160, as described above in relation to the first embodiment. Processingthen returns to step S1210.

If, however, the portable-device disconnection detector 1010 detects, inreal time, disconnection of the portable device 328, i.e., breaking ofthe connection (step S1240, “YES” branch), the connection status of thecharger 316 reflects this, and the disconnection event is communicatedin real time to the notification module 940. Likewise in real time, thereminder 138 is scheduled which, in the case of the timing threshold990, means that, for example, the threshold is accessed for setting acountdown timer (step S1270). In effect, commencement of reminding theuser 105 is scheduled so as to delay the commencement. Then, asrepresented in FIG. 13A or in FIGS. 14A, 14B, correspondingly oneprocess executes or two sub-processes concurrently execute. Execution ofthe sub-process(es) delays, in effect, commencement of reminding theuser 105. The delay affords leeway in the form of a grace time periodthat is predetermined in the case of a time criterion. In the case of adistance criterion, the delay persists until the distance, orout-of-range, criterion is met. The distance criterion in the stepsS1335, S1440 is discussed herein above in the context of an RFIDdetection method. However, the criterion may instead, or in addition,apply to distance between the adaptor 304 and a Bluetooth™ pairedportable device. Alternatively, the criterion may apply to distancebetween transceivers designed for any short-range communication, e.g.,using ultra-wide band (UWB) or IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi) transceivers.Commencement of the reminder 138 is accordingly scheduled so as to delaythe commencement.

In accordance with an exemplary reset embodiment seen in FIG. 14A-14D,the circuitry 900 is configured to, upon detection, in real time, thatthe user 105 has re-connected the portable device 328 for charging soonafter having disconnected it, immediately forgo issuing a reminder. Thistakes advantage of the grace time period. In particular, the circuitry900 immediately resets the schedule that was created by the schedulingof a reminder, and, in addition, immediately reinitiates monitoring fordisconnection of the portable device. To reset the schedule, as furtherseen in FIGS. 14A, 14B, a first sub-process 1401 interrupts an ongoingsub-process 1402 that is determining whether a predetermined criterionis met. As further shown in FIG. 14C, one version 1403 of a part of theongoing sub-process 1402 executes to determine whether a predeterminedtime period has expired. Another version 1404 of that part executes, asshown in FIG. 14D, to determine whether the portable device 328 equippedwith an RFID tag exceeds a predetermined distance from the RFIDinterrogator 1035 in the adaptor 304 after the disconnection. The RFIDinterrogator 1035 may alternatively be disposed within the charger 316,if, for example, the circuitry 900 is integrated into the charger.

For simplicity of further explanation, the no-reset version, as seen inFIGS. 13A-13C, is discussed herein below first.

Now that the reminder has been scheduled (step S1270), and after apredetermined criterion is met (step S1305), query is made as to whetherthe portable device is now re-connected (step S1310), i.e., as to theconnection status of the charger 316, thereby avoiding any need for areminder if the re-connection has been made.

The criterion can be, for example, a time-based criterion or adistance-based criterion.

For a time-based criterion, seen in FIG. 13B, first the variableTOTALDELAY is initialized to zero (step S1315). The variable TOTALDELAYis thereafter iteratively incremented by A (step S1320) until TOTALDELAYmeets a threshold value (step S1325). The value A may, for example, beset equal to 1, an iteration occurring each second, with the thresholdvalue being 6. The delay of, illustratively, 6 seconds gives the user105, in view of step S1310, leeway to unplug and reconnect the portabledevice 328, or possibly move it from one outlet to another, withoutgenerating an alarm, e.g., audible reminder.

The distance-based criterion, depicted in FIG. 13C, which here isprovided instead of, but can be in addition to, the time-basedcriterion, is based on distance between the adaptor-based, RFIDinterrogator 1035 and an RFID tag in the portable device 328. Whenmovement of the portable device 328 causes a distance-based threshold tobe met, as evidenced by the wireless connection 136 being broken (stepS1335), the distance-based criterion is satisfied. The criterion canalso be met by repeatedly detecting the distance and comparing thedetected distance to a distance-based threshold until the threshold ismet. The system 900 monitors for portable-device movement meeting thecriterion.

Thus, for instance, if the threshold is 15 feet, an audible alarm maysound as the user 105 is down the hall or otherwise about to leavewithout having taken the adaptor 304, or adaptor and charger 316.

As with the reset version, the RFID interrogator 1035 may alternativelybe disposed within the charger 316, if, for example, the circuitry 900is integrated into the charger.

When respectively the time-based, or distance-based, criterion issatisfied (step S1305), query is made, as mentioned above, as to whetherthe portable device 328 is now re-connected (step S1310).

If the portable device 328 has been re-connected, which can bedetermined by matching the present current-magnitude reading 982 to itsrespective reference magnitude 990, processing returns to step S1210.

Even if the portable device 328 has not been re-connected, the user 105need not necessarily be reminded to go back for the charger 316. Thereminding is not needed if, as reflected in the charger connectionstatus set by the power-connection-existence detector 1025, the chargeris not plugged in, i.e., the charger is not in a state of beingconnected for powering from the electrical outlet 308 (step S1340). Ifthe charger 316 is not plugged in, processing returns to step S1210.

If, on the other hand, the charger 316 is still plugged in or otherwiseconnected for receiving electrical power from a source external to theadaptor, such as the electrical outlet 308, audible and visualcomponents of a reminder are issued (step S1345).

Determining whether to issue the reminder 138 is, accordingly, performedat the scheduled commencement of reminding in the present embodiment,and is based on a connection status of the charger 316.

The reminder 138 comes forth from a device for communicating thereminder to the user 105.

The visual component of the reminder 138 may, for instance, be orinclude the flashing of the LED 226. The audible component may be orinclude an alarm such as is found in a typical household smoke alarm.Optionally, only one of the components may be implemented, or actuatedin accordance with output of the alarm selector 1140. Also, it can beinconvenient to replace a lost charger which is associated with aparticular type of portable device; whereas, the adaptor 304 may be moregeneralized. Nevertheless, a check can also be made, in connection withstep S1340, on whether the adaptor 304 is plugged in, even if thecharger 316 is not, to remind the user 105 to retrieve the adaptor.Optionally, on the other hand, the issuing of the reminder 138 can besubject to the charger 316 being in a state of being connected forpowering from the outlet 308.

Considering now, once again, the reset version of FIGS. 14A-14D, nowthat the reminder has been scheduled (step S1270), the first sub-process1401 monitors in real time for re-connection of the portable device 328for charging (step S1405). If, and when, re-connection occurs before areminder issues, as reflected in the charger connection status set bythe portable-device-connection detector 1015, the schedule is reset(step S1410). In particular, the current schedule is foregone, andmonitoring for a disconnection event represented by step S1210 isreinitiated.

With respect to the second sub-process 1402, the steps S1415, S1420,S1425 for the time-based criterion are analogous to the afore-discussedsteps S1315, S1320, S1325 for the time-based criterion of the no-resetversion, except that iteration is interrupted (step S1430), in the eventthat the schedule is reset (step S1410). In case of interruption,processing returns to step S1210.

Likewise for the distance-based criterion, the reset-version,distance-based criterion step S1440 is analogous to the step S1335 forthe distance-based criterion of the no-reset version, except thatiteration is interrupted (step S1445), in the event that the schedule isreset (step S1410). In case of interruption, processing returns to step1210.

The second sub-process 1402, executing concurrently with the firstsub-process 1401, monitors, in iterations that are likewise subject tointerruption (step S1455), for the respective predetermined criterion1403, 1404 being met (step S1450). Upon the respective predeterminedcriterion 1403, 1404 being met (step S1450), or, equivalently andrespectively, processing into the YES branch in step S1425 or S1440,query is made as to whether the charger 316 is plugged in (step S1460).If the charger 316 is not in a “plugged in” state, there is no need tonotify the user 105, and processing returns to step S1205. On the otherhand, if the charger 316 is still plugged in, i.e., in a “plugged in”state, audible and visible components of a reminder issue (step S1465).Here, too, as in the no-reset version, an additional check canoptionally be made as to whether the adaptor 304 is plugged in.

Each of the time- and distance-based criteria 1403, 1404 may beimplemented with the predetermined threshold, i.e., distance or lengthof time, being adjustable by the user through actuation of a controlsuch as one or more buttons, dials, etc.

A reminder system for a portable-device charger is designed fordetermining when it is likely that the charger is about to be leftbehind. Detection which may be in real time can pertain, depending onthe embodiment, to disconnection of a portable device from the charger,and/or movement of a portable device out of wireless range of thecharger or a charger adaptor. In some versions, the onset of remindingis, upon detecting disconnection, tentatively postponed until apredetermined criterion is met, such as expiry of a predetermined timeperiod. Or the criterion can be detection of an out-of-range conditionbased on distance between the portable device and an adaptor or charger.In some embodiments detection and reminder issuance are incorporated ina unit, such as a plug-in wall adaptor or the charger itself. Theadaptor can be generalized rather than specialized for a charger of aparticular make or model. The system can be unobtrusive, and sensitiveto the charger connection status, power saving and power outages

Besides preventing inadvertent loss of a charger when the user is awayfrom home, the novel adaptor can prevent its own loss, and can executepower-saving shutdown in “no-load” and full-charge situations. Itoptionally can be made capable of distinguishing the latter situationsfrom a power outage, which is potentially temporary, so as to avoid asuperfluous or premature reminder. Like most mobile-device chargers, theadaptor has a small form-factor suitable for a travel accessory. Inaddition, the adaptor need not be disconnected from the charger when theuser is back home; but, instead, can conveniently be switched by theuser into home mode and utilized for its power-saving feature. Moreparticularly, the adaptor is universal in that it can be generalized foruse with any number of chargers without being limited to any single makeor model. Optionally, a user can, by means of a personal computer forexample, connect to a website and select charging profiles of specificdevices. The profiles are then wirelessly transmitted, as disclosed inU.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0007212 to Theytaz et al., in thepresent context the transmission being to the adaptor. Also, although aconsumer need not purchase but one adaptor, an alternative is topurchase multiple ones to leave connected to various chargers forconvenience and for their energy-saving feature. Advantageously, sincethe adaptor is generalized, it can conveniently be obtained at manysales outlets. In fact, as mentioned above, the adaptor canalternatively be implemented appurtenant to a standard wall outlet of ahome or hotel room.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in thedrawings and foregoing description, such illustration and descriptionare to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive; theinvention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.

For example, wireless notification is not limited to text messaging, andmay involve voicemail. Nor is wireless notification limited toBluetooth™ embodiments or embodiments based on any other short-rangewireless protocol, but instead may be used in, or supplement,notification triggered by time- or distance-based thresholds. As anotherexample, the adaptor 204 may feature merely one of the resilient togglebuttons 208, 216. Also, the adaptor can, at the expense of the smallform-factor advantage noted above, be alternatively incorporated into analarm clock such as the one shown in Slusky. Such an embodiment can,optionally, instead of being designed for placement flush against thewall, be provided with a cord having a wall plug at one end.Alternatively, the adaptor can be designed for plugging into a chargingreceptacle of a motor vehicle such as a bus, the distance or timethreshold being set lower, so that the traveler can be reminded to takethe charger and adaptor when exiting the vehicle.

Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood andeffected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimedinvention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and theappended claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not excludeother elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does notexclude a plurality. Any reference signs in the claims should not beconstrued as limiting the scope.

A computer program can be stored momentarily, temporarily or for alonger period of time on a suitable computer-readable medium, such as anoptical storage medium or a solid-state medium. Such a medium isnon-transitory only in the sense of not being a transitory, propagatingsignal, but includes other forms of computer-readable media such asregister memory, processor cache and RAM.

A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of severalitems recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures arerecited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that acombination of these measured cannot be used to advantage.

What is claimed is:
 1. A reminding apparatus comprising: a detector; anda notification module, said apparatus being configured for: connection,for charging a portable device, between a source of electricity and saiddevice; detecting its own disconnection from said device, said detectingbeing performed via said detector; and issuing, via said module, areminder for preventing said apparatus from being left behind, saidapparatus being further configured for performing said issuing at leastone of: a) after a predetermined delay, said delay having been scheduledresponsive to said detecting of said disconnection; and b) responsive tosaid detecting of said disconnection and to distance between saidapparatus and said device exceeding a predetermined threshold.
 2. Theapparatus of claim 1, configured for the scheduling, said issuing aftersaid delay occurring upon expiry of a time period of said delay.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1, said source of electricity being embedded in awall.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, said connection comprising electricalconnection, and said disconnection comprising electrical disconnection.5. The apparatus of claim 1, configured for the scheduling, saidscheduling comprising setting, with said delay, a timer.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1, configured for the scheduling, said detectingbeing dynamically responsive to an event that results in saiddisconnection.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, configured for thescheduling, and for performing said scheduling automatically and withoutneed for user intervention.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, configured forthe scheduling, and further configured for preventing said issuingscheduled for after said delay, if said device is reconnected to saidapparatus during said delay.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, furtherconfigured such that unplugging, via said apparatus, so as to disconnectsaid module from a source of power external to said apparatus terminatessaid reminder.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, configured for thescheduling and such that: i) said disconnection results from adisconnection event in which a portable-device battery is disconnectedfrom said apparatus; and ii) said detecting is performed in real timeresponse to said event.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising ahousing having outside corners and configured with a travel-accessoryform factor according to which said corners are rounded.
 12. Theapparatus of claim 1, configured with a travel mode of operation andanother mode of operation.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a user switch for halting said issuing, said switch being amanual switch.
 14. Circuitry comprising: a disconnection detector; and anotification module, said circuitry being configured for reminding auser to thereby prevent an apparatus, that is connectable for charging aportable device and is detachable from said device, from being leftbehind, said circuitry comprising: a disconnection detector configuredfor determining that disconnection of said device from said apparatushas occurred; and a notification module configured for, responsive tosaid determining that said disconnection has occurred, delayingcommencement of said reminding.
 15. The circuitry of claim 14, saiddisconnection comprising electrical disconnection.
 16. The circuitry ofclaim 14, said determining being dynamically responsive to saiddisconnection so as to yield an immediate determination that saiddisconnection has occurred.
 17. The circuitry of claim 14, said delayingbeing for a predetermined length of time.
 18. The circuitry of claim 14,said apparatus being connectable to said device for said charging. 19.The circuitry of claim 14, further configured for performing saidreminding, responsive to said determining, automatically and withoutneed for user intervention.
 20. The circuitry of claim 14, configuredfor preventing said reminding if said device is reconnected during thedelay.
 21. A computer readable medium for preventing leaving behind anapparatus, said apparatus comprising a notification module andconfigured for connection, for charging a portable device, between asource of electricity and said device, said medium embodying a computerprogram having instructions executable by a processor for performing aplurality of acts, among said plurality there being the acts of:detecting, by said apparatus, its disconnection from said device; andissuing, via said module, a reminder for preventing said apparatus frombeing left behind, said apparatus being further configured forperforming said issuing at least one of: a) after a predetermined delay,said delay having been scheduled responsive to said detecting of saiddisconnection; and b) responsive to said detecting of said disconnectionand to distance between said apparatus and said device exceeding apredetermined threshold.
 22. A wall outlet adaptor comprising: aconnection status detector; and a notification module; said detectorbeing configured for, while a device remains plugged in to said adaptor,sensing, from said device, that said device is about to be left behind,said sensing comprising at least one of: i) sensing a change of currentflowing to said device; and ii) sensing engagement between said adaptorand said device, said adaptor being further configured for, via saidmodule, issuing a reminder, said issuing being responsive to at leastone of: a) said sensing that said device is about to be left behind; andb) determining that a portable device has exceeded a predetermineddistance from said adaptor.
 23. The adaptor of claim 22, said sensingthat said device is about to be left behind comprising sensing saidchange.
 24. The adaptor of claim 23, said issuing being responsive tosaid sensing that said device is about to be left behind.
 25. Theadaptor of claim 22, said sensing that said device is about to be leftbehind comprising sensing said engagement.
 26. The adaptor of claim 25,said issuing being responsive to said sensing that said device is aboutto be left behind.
 27. The adaptor of claim 25, said issuing beingresponsive to said determining.
 28. The adaptor of claim 22, saidsensing that said device is about to be left behind entailing detecting,by said detector, that said device is disconnected from a portabledevice.
 29. The adaptor of claim 28, further configured for, afterdetermining that the disconnection has occurred, delaying said issuing.30. A unit comprising the adaptor of claim 28, said adaptor beingconfigured for said issuing responsive to said sensing that said deviceis about to be left behind, said detecting comprising detecting an actof mutual disconnection in which said device and said portable deviceare mutually disconnected from one another, said issuing beingresponsive to said detecting of said act.